Pasenadi

Pasenadi, also known as Prasenajit in Sanskrit, was a significant ruler of Kosala during the 6th or 5th century BCE, with Shravasti serving as his capital. His reign was marked by his prominent role as an Upāsaka, a lay follower, of Gautama Buddha. He demonstrated his devotion by constructing numerous Buddhist monasteries, contributing to the spread and support of the Buddha's teachings.

Life and Historical Context

Pasenadi's early life included studies in Taxila. His kingdom, Kosala, was strategically positioned, maintaining friendly relations with the powerful Licchavi tribe to the east and having gained suzerainty over the Kālāma tribal republic. His marital alliances were notable, with his first queen being a sister to King Bimbisara of Magadha. His second and chief queen, Vāsavakhattiyā, was the daughter of a garland-maker and mother to his son, Viḍūḍabha, and daughter, Princess Vajira. Princess Vajira was later married to Ajatashatru, Pasenadi's nephew.

Reign and Downfall

During Pasenadi's rule, the general Bandhula, who had been educated in Takṣaśilā and served the king, became a key figure. However, an incident involving Bandhula and his wife Mallikā violating a sacred tank of the Licchavikas led to hostilities. Later, Bandhula and his sons were treacherously murdered by Pasenadi. In retaliation, some Mallakas allegedly aided Pasenadi's son, Viḍūḍabha, in usurping the throne. This event forced Pasenadi to flee Kosala, and he met his end before the gates of Rājagaha, the capital of Magadha. Historical records, such as the Puranas, offer differing accounts of his successor, mentioning Kṣudraka instead of Viḍūḍabha.